(Adapted from Ellen M. Cummings, New Hampshire)
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Understanding of and commitment to the following principles are essential to ensure that This basic human right of Self-Determination is respected and ensured. Each action and decision made should be weighed against the following principles:
People have the right to choose how they will live their lives, where and with whom. When people need help, it is friends and family closest to them who assist them in broadening their experiences and exercising their right to choose. It is essential that each person have a network or circle of support chosen by them.
The relationships a person has with others are like precious gems. A relationship must be treasured, nurtured and protected. Those with whom the individual has real rela- tionships provide the strength, assistance, and security which ensure each person's well-being.
Everyone has the ability to contribute to his or her community in a meaningful way. giving of self helps people establish a sense of belonging and identify. Community membership includes having an opportunity to be employed, to own a home, to be truly involved in the routines of the community and to make a difference in the lives of others.
Individuals, as they take greater control and authority over their lives and resources, assume greater responsibility for their decisions and actions. They are also responsible to contribute from all financial resources at their disposal. Professionals and staff work for the individual rather than for the system. Families, friends and staff assist people to create more meaningful relationships, link them with needed supports, remove barriers, develop safety networks, and help make dreams come true...while never forgetting who is in charge.
People have the power to make decisions and truly control their lives. This includes authority over financial resources, as well as authority to determine what supports are needed, how they will be implemented and by whom. People also have control of hiring those who will provide support.
All people have hopes and dreams which guide the actions they take and are most meaningful to them. A commitment to helping people determine their dreams, respecting those dreams, and helping make dreams come true is crucial.
All people have an inherent right to be treated with dignity and to be respected as a whole person. Most of life's greatest lessons are learned by making choices that are later realized as mistakes. All people have the right to the dignity of risk. The network of support makes risk possible by weaving a safety net that supports growth.
Making things happen does not always require money. It is imperative that alternatives to paid supports be found. When support must be purchased, people will get what they need, pay only for what they get, make real investments, spend money more efficiently, and make adjustments when they are needed. To find the best quality for the most reasonable price, people are free to purchase in and out of the system.
An attitude that nothing is impossible, as along as it is legal and causes no harm, is required. "No, we can't" as an answer is replaced by "How can we make this happen?" Those who work in the system become barrier movers.
Remember: Self-Determination is a fundamental human right. It is another way of saying "freedom". It means that people have "authority" over how their lives will be lived, where, and with whom. It means that people have control of the resources needed for their "support", as well as "responsibility" for their decisions and actions.
Individuals should have the freedom to develop a personal life plan based on personal dreams and lifestyle.
Individuals will be provided the supports they need to plan,
exercise authority and choice, and to live a preferred lifestyle.
This includes assuring the support individuals need to be healthy, safety and productive.
Individuals should have the authority to control the resources
available for their supports. This includes authority to decide
what, who, when, where and how much.
Individuals have a responsibility to use resources wisely and
to contribute back to their community in meaningful ways
through their presence, efforts and talents.